Using furlough time
Being a bi-vocational pastor, I know the importance of time management in getting things done.
Being a proud state employee for 17 years and pastoring has not always been easy. I know the pain of three furlough days a month without pay. The cut equals 15 percent of my pay.
The good news is that I can spend more time attending to the flock that the Lord has placed me over. A pastor will tell you that it really does not matter the size of the congregation, the people's needs must still be met. That is why now is the time for all good men and women to lend a hand.
I know of families where both husband and wife work for the state, which means their entire household income (not merely the pay of one wage-earner) has been cut 15 percent. Some employees have lost their homes. Many are looking for second jobs working at night.
But the job market in Kern County has not rebounded from the recession. Families are under a tremendous amount of additional stress. SEIU Local 521 conducted a food drive and is giving food to laid-off county and city workers.
I am urging state workers to volunteer their furlough days at the Rescue Mission. You will realize that things could be a whole lot worse. The staff meets the needs of a diverse population. Volunteers are always needed, not just during the holidays.
REV. CURTIS JENKINS
Bakersfield
